New Naim UnitiQute 2

 Now upgraded and no price change

UnitiQute 2 All-in-one Player

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unitiqute_front_10pc_0.jpg

 

 

Connect with your music like never before
It's a cliche we know, but good things come in small packages. The UnitiQute 2 all-in-one audio player however isn't just good: it's a brilliant-sounding, uniquely versatile, seductively compact and, of course, irresistibly cute example of what contemporary music in the home is all about. Music downloads, high-resolution music files, internet radio, network music, UPnP servers, iPod/MP3 players - everything that the new era of music delivery can throw at it, UnitiQute 2 can play. Revitalised for 2013, UnitiQute 2 improves upon the performance of its predecessor with enhanced sound quality and Multiroom functionality. High-resolution 32bit/192kHz streaming capability and a DAB/DAB+ tuner now also come as standard.

Music for everyone
Just like NaimUniti 2, its multi-award-winning sibling, UnitiQute 2 is right at the forefront of modern music delivery technology, and its significance for music enthusiasts of all aspirations is far greater than the simple sum of its component parts. For the committed enthusiast with an existing Naim setup, UnitiQute 2 can not only deliver exceptional Naim music-making as a second system, but also play the role of gateway to all the new digital music delivery formats - from USB memory sticks, UPnP streaming to internet radio. For the more casual listener, UnitiQute 2 can take the place of both the old hi-fi system and the iPod dock, sound far better than either, and at the same time introduce new worlds of audio ripe for exploration.

Small box... Big on features
For starters, UnitiQute 2 includes a preamplifier with two analogue inputs, five 32bit/192kHz-capable digital inputs and all the traditional Naim musical clarity and transparency. Next, UnitiQute 2 includes a muscular power amplifier that provides all the rhythmic punch and definition you would expect from Naim. You want conventional radio? Well, UnitiQute 2 includes FM and DAB/DAB+ tuners that get the best possible performance from either format. UnitiQute 2 is happy also to play music from an iPod or MP3 player via its front panel-mounted USB socket. The USB audio connection is digital so iPod sound quality is optimised, and Apple authenticated too so compatibility is seamless. And the same USB socket can be used to play music files in almost any format at up to 32bit/192kHz resolution straight from a memory stick. And it doesn't end there. A network Ethernet socket and integrated Wi-Fi means that, along with everything else, UnitiQute 2 can easily tap into Internet radio or UPnP servers, a Naim HDX for example, to drop almost unlimited music choices right into your lap. Talk about cute.

Easy access to your music
Bringing everything audio, digital and analogue together is one thing, but making it all work seamlessly together is something else entirely. UnitiQute 2 is controlled by a dedicated remote handset in combination with a large, clear display. The UnitiQute 2 user interface borrows the principles of intuition and accessibility, and much of the substance, from the already proven NaimUniti 2 interface. The interface is clear, intuitive, uncluttered and makes light work of access to the remarkable versatility and performance of UnitiQute 2. And the n-Stream app for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch will enhance the experience still further and raise its brilliance yet another notch.

Multiroom & Party Mode
As well as being a high-end standalone streaming system, UnitiQute 2 opens up the possibility of multiroom hi-fi. Connected to other Naim streaming products over the home network, it can act as the ‘Master’ or ‘Client’ streaming product in a multiroom system which will get the party started and play music in Naim quality in every corner of your home. Click here for more information on Multiroom & Party Mode.


Make the most of your digitally stored music files...

 

NAIM have done it again,.. Introducing the NEW NAIM DAC-V1 & NAP 100.

The DAC-V1 ( @ £1250 ) is an asynchronous USB digital to analogue converter with multiple digital S/PDIF inputs, precision volume control and a high-quality headphone amplifier. It will produce stunning sound quality from your computer and transform it into a high-quality, high-resolution music hub.

Connect the DAC-V1 to your PC, Mac or Laptop via a standard A to B USB cable and the quality of your music will be defined not by the limitations of the computer hardware, but by the quality of the data itself. And with DAC-V1 that can be incredibly high, up to 24bit/384kHz resolution.

The NAP 100 ( @ £650 ) is a classic expression of traditional Naim power amplifier engineering. Offering 50 watts per channel at 8 Ohms, and 75 watts at 4 Ohms, the NAP 100 is a dual mono design based on the circuit topology found in our SuperUniti reference all-in-one player. While its dimensions are conveniently compact – just 20cm wide – its performance is seriously dynamic and expansive. Combine the NAP 100 with its partner the DAC-V1, and either a computer or UnitiServe for example, to create a thoroughly modern system, bursting with Naim rhythm and clarity.

If you wish to unleash your digitally stored musics potential then give us a call on tel: 01793 53822 or e-mail us at swindon@audio-t.co.uk to see what you've been missing out on!!

 

SONOS raise the bar!!

Introducing the NEW SONOS PLAYBAR.

The Sonos PLAYBAR features 9 speakers, 1 optical input to go from a TV or other device ( cable included ) and also 2x ethernet connections.

The 9 speakers make the Playbar an LCR unit with the option to add Play:3's or Play:5's as surrounds to make a 5.1 system. Which of course means adding the Sonos SUB!

You can use the PLAYBAR on a day to day basis with your TV/Sky/Virgin Box to add much more clarity and definition to the lifeless sound you get from most modern flat panel screens that look beautiful on our walls.

This system performs well with Dolby and DTS 5.1 movies via the optical connection from a blu-ray player. Performance is superb for a wireless solution.

The SONOS PLAYBAR at £599 makes a great building block to the start of a wireless 5.1 surround sound solution.

Call us today on tel: 01793 538222 or e-mail us at swindon@audio-t.co.uk to arrange your demonstration.

Q Acoustics Concept 20 Loudspeakers...

The Concept 20 is a new loudspeaker from Q Acoustics which delivers a level of sonic performance previously only available to audiophiles able to invest in
high-end models.

This exceptional performance has been achieved by using breakthrough technology and applying scientific methodology to overcome the fundamental problems of speaker design.

As well as class leading drive units and crossover, the beautifully lacquered. Concept 20 cabinet utilises GelcoreTM construction, specifically developed for acoustic enclosures. In effect this is a ‘cabinet within a cabinet’; separated by a special, resonance cancelling compound. This enables the drive units to simply reproduce music, unencumbered by cabinet induced colouration.

The result is nothing short of sensational.

For the very best results the Concept 20 should be used on its unique dedicated speaker stand, which uses the same GelcoreTM construction technique.

 

So if you're looking for a standmount speaker in the sub £500 category then the Q Acoustics Concept 20 well deserves a listen.

Call us today on tel: 01793 538222 or e-mail us at swindon@audio-t.co.uk to arrange your demo.

You Don't Need A Lot of Space For These Satellites...

Introducing the new KEF E 305 speaker system.

We have just taken delivery of the New KEF E 305 and we must say that KEF have thrown down the gauntlet with this speaker package.


Understated and finished to a high standard the E 305 package will look good in any room and is available in a black or white finish.


Even Chromy has taken a shine to the satin chrome finish on the stand.


We will have the KEF E 305s up and running by the weekend.

In the meantime you can read Audio-T Brentwoods review right here. /brentwood/

If you would like a demonstration, call us on 0161 8398869 or email:manchester@audio-t.co.uk

 

The New Wharfedale Diamond 100's Punch Well Above Their Weight

Warmth without loss of detail, and exceptional good for long listening periods is how we would describe the new Wharfedale Diamonds.

We thought the last generation of loudspeakers were very good, but the new generation has taken a huge leap in peformance and have redefined the sound you can get for your money.

Regrdless of the model 121, 122, 155 we have found them to be very well balanced and musical.

The smaller standmounts offer impressive base extension for such small cabinets and becuase they are portedat the bottom offer great flexibility of placement, so can be placed up against a wall or in open space. The added bonus is also they work tremendously well in a home cinema set up, particularly when using the matching centre's.

They seem to work on pretty much every amplifier that we have paired them with and we have tried Heed, Naim, Arcam and Rega and all sound top notch.

We believe they offer exceptional value for money as entry level loudspeaker and if you are looking for new standmouts or floorstanders they should be high on your audition list.

We recommend them unreservedly, come and listen and hear for yourself.

 Jon, Farid & Audio Phil

 

 

New Musical Fidelity EB50 In Ear Headphones Available for Demonstration

We have Musical Fidelity's brand new in ear EB50 headphones available for demonstration in store.

We have a listening station so you can try them out with your phone or mp3 player before you buy!

If you're intending to spend just shy of £150 on a pair of headphones you need to be sure that they are comfortable and fit well and most importantly sound great before you part with your hard earned cash.

If you're looking for a pair of audiophile quality in ear headphones that sound great when you're out and about on your bike, at the gym or errr......whatever you're up to come in and and have a listen.

Don't take our word for it either. See the video and read the review here

Jon, Farid & Audio Phil

The New KEF E Series 5.1 Cinema System Does Not Disappoint

We have just received and opened the brand new E305 system from KEF and even out of the box I am gobsmacked!!

We had the KHT2005 system on the wall for many moons now but took it down as the new ones were coming.

Having demonstrated this system many times I know how good it sounds at its price point. Hearing about the new E305 system my first thought was that it will be marginally better and looks pretty but I was wrong. The upgrade is chalk and cheese!

Getting them out of the box and feeling the speaker, the finish and weight of them is exceedingly better than the previous model. Taking technology from the award winning R series and even Blade you can tell that KEF haven't held back!

Very simple swivel bracket on the bottom of the unit that can be modified to either sit on a stand/cabinet or to go on a wall is simple and effective. The turn of two small screws and you're done!

The subwoofer is a thing of beauty and doesn't sound too bad either! We are always sceptical of sub sat systems as the sub sometimes come up short so we would always recommend a Velodyne or a REL and while it isn't in dedicated subwoofer territory it isn't bad at all!

Keeping the settings the same on the amplifier for the previous system but just fine tuning the sub and it was instantly better. A much fuller and broader sound straight away was noticed by me and the customer. We were both in shock as to how good it was!

For £900 its a stylish sub/sat system that will be sure to win awards!

I am hopefully putting them on the wall today so pop down have a listen and let me know how you would like to pay ;-)

Danny

Audio-T,

30, Crown Street,

Brentwood

CM14 4BA

01277-264730

brentwood@audio-t.co.uk

Sennheiser's Exquisite HDVD-800 Headphone Amplifier/DAC

We are delighted to announce becoming a Sennheiser CLUB ORPHEUS dealer and the introduction of Sennheiser’s latest ‘must-have’ product for all prospective or existing owners of their ground-braking HD800 headphones.

The new HDVD-800 Digital Headphone Amplifier is custom designed to exactly match the characteristics of the HD800 (also compatible with HD700 & HD650) 

As you can see from the pictures this is a thing of real beauty. Housed in an exquisite extruded aluminium case with a see-through window showing off the high quality components and a proper potentiometer within. All bathed in a soft blue glow from the internal LEDs.

 

Of course this isn’t just a headphone amp but also a high quality 24bit/192KHz DAC featuring a Burr Brown chip-set. With multiple inputs both digital/USB and analogue it has a multitude of applications be it from a computer, a hifi system or direct from any other digital source. (See Sennheiser’s release notes and specifications below).

The HDVD-800 can also be used as a high-end sound card for your computer and output to a power amplifier via its balanced rear outputs.

Now, we always thought the HD800 were the finest headphones ever made (as did most of the press when they were launched a couple of years back) but frankly we had no idea they were this good.

I have never heard any headphones sound so natural and uncoloured before. So effortlessly dynamic yet lacking any harshness or edginess, they now sound incredibly spacious and musically compelling.

HDVD800 and HD800 are available exclusively from CLUB ORPHEUS dealers  

Why buy from a Club Orpheus member?

Exclusive access to our very best products

The confidence that you are buying from an approved Sennheiser specialist

Extended warranties on selected Sennheiser products in the Club Orpheus range

First-class dedicated customer service

Priority product support

Demonstration facilities with unparalleled expertise

STOP PRESS!

We just heard from Sennhesier yesterday they are to introduce a BALANCED output lead (to replace the existing lead provided with the phones) for the HD800, HD600 and HD650 (all different to suit each headphone) to take advantage of the amp’s balanced headphone output option. We were informed it’s a huge step up in performance. Can’t wait!

So taken are we with this that we now have it permanently wired up on demo so just pop in to experience headphone nirvana!

Simon

 

From Sennheiser UK:

Overview

With Sennheiser’s HDVD 800, sound is perfect. The HDVD 800 is able to connect with digital sources and is equipped with a high-quality Burr-Brown digital/analog converter (DAC) that converts digital audio data into analog signals with a resolution of 24 bits and a sampling rate of up to 192 kHz. This enables the HDVD 800 to transmit the entire frequency spectrum of high-end audio sources without any loss of frequencies. 

In addition to the symmetrical inputs, the HDVD 800 also has an asymmetrical input socket; incoming signals are symmetrized before further processing takes place. Digital sources can be connected to the rear of the unit via an XLR (AES/EBU) input, optical and coaxial (S/PDIF) digital inputs or USB. All digital inputs accept signals up to 24 bit at 192 KHz*. Designed and manufactured in Germany, this high-end, solid-state amplifier harmonize perfectly and deliver an ultimate acoustic performance when paired with any of Sennheiser’s audiophile headphones.

Features

0.D/A transducer for all common formats up to 24 bit / 192 kHz

0.D/A transducer can be used for CD and DVD players

0.AES/BU, S/PDIF, USB inputs

0.Symmetrical (XLR) and asymmetrical (RCA) analog inputs

0.Symmetrical output

Sockets for four sets of headphones (two of which symmetrical)

 

Technical Data

Technical Data and Specification of HDVD 800

Article No. 505590

  

Dimensions

(W x H x D): approx. 216 mm x 55 mm x 324 mm

 

Frequency response

0.3 Hz to 100 kHz (-3 dB)

 

THD, total harmonic distortion

< -110 dB (1 kHz / maximum gain)

 

Weight

2,2 Kg

 

Audio input

Analogue input XLR-3 : Max. input voltage 20 dBV / Input impedance 10 kOhm

 

Analogue input RCA: Max. input voltage (eff) 14 dBV / Input impedance 10 kOhm

 

Digital SPDIF (RCA): Max. sampling frequency 192 kHz /AES3-compatible) / Max. resolution 24 bit

 

Digital SPDIF (TosLink): Max. sampling frequency: 192 kHz (AES3-compatible) Max. resolution: 24 bit

 

Digital AES/EBU (XLR-3): Max. sampling frequency: 192 kHz (AES3-compatible) / Max. resolution: 24 bit

 

USB (USB-B) USB standard: USB 2.0 / USB 3.0 USB audio class: USB Audio 2.0

 

Power consumption

9 W

 

Input voltage range

100 - 240 V AC / 50 - 60 Hz

 

 

Panasonic TXP65VT50B Clearance Bargain!

To make room for the imminent arrivals of new models we are offering our demonstration Panasonic TXP65VT50B plasma TV for the unbelievably low price of £1999.95, just half the original list price of £3999.95!

This TV offers stunning picture quality on a 65" screen suitably imposing to complement the best home cinema systems.  As it is wall mounted in our demonstration room it has had an easy life, being safely out of reach of little fingers!  It has only had occasional use for booked home cinema demonstrations and comes complete with box, manual, remote and all accessories.  We also include a free five year warranty for complete peace of mind.

 

We only have one of these fantastic plasma TVs at this crazy unrepeatable price so be quick as it won't be here for long! Please note that, at this price, the sale of this screen would be for collection only.

 

Naim CD5Si CD Player

Naim's new entry-level player has arrived at our store in Reading!

Benefitting from some major improvements over the previous model, the CD5Si can rightly claim to be THE player to audition at the £1K price point.

The improvements have had a dramatic effect on the overall performance of the machine, due in no small way to a new transport,DAC/Filter and upgraded power rails.

 

 

The end result is a supremely musical and engaging player,particularly when partnered with the Nait 5i integrated amp and suitable speakers.

Book your demo now!

Naim CD5si  £994.95

Keith

 

KEF E305 Home Cinema Package

 

 

After the demise of the KEF KHT 2005 and 3005 the new KEF E305 is not only a good replacement but an improvement. Matched with the Yamaha RXV 673 and Sony BDPS 790 it gives a dynamic sound without forgoing control. We tested the system with the Mines of Moria scene from "The fellowship of the ring", with out the need to crank the volume up to get the right effect the Yamaha gave the speakers plenty to do offering great detail and an enthralling, exciting sound stage.

 Musically Antonio Forcione sounded surprisingly good. Well detailed and rhythmic. 

The build quality and design of the E305 is what one would expect from KEF.  Very stylish in the flesh, the pictures don't do it justice, and the package has a good solid feel of quality and good engineering.

For a sub £900 speaker package the KEF E305 is at the very least a must listen if not a must have.

 

Listen To The Sonos Playbar Today!

So you've seen the advert, but how does it sound?

Find out today what its all about in one of our isolated demonstration rooms.

Listen to how good the Sonos Playbar sounds on its own...

Add the Sonos Sub to gain Scale & Authority! improving both music & movies

For those of you who want to fully transform the Sonos system into a 5.1 Surround sound, simply add the Sonos Play:3 as rear speakers...

and the best thing about all of this is theres no need to run cables! Each Sonos component just needs power!

 

Find out what all the fuss is about & book a demo today!

 

Audio-T Enfield

Tel: 0208 367 3132

Email: enfield@audio-t.co.uk

Music Begins At Forty......

Pro-Ac Response D Forty R

We are pleased announce the delivery of a pair of ProAc Response D Forty speakers.

For a limited time only, ProAc have very kindly loaned us a pair.

We plan to live with the speakers for few weeks and see what we think.

Early signs are very positive. Hooked up to a Rega Osiris amplifier and the Rega Isis CD they sound very impressive indeed. 

The Pro-Ac ribbon tweeter. It's unique aluminium construction leaves it 'as light as a human hair'.

 

The powered coated aluminium bars at the bottom of the speaker. The side vented enclosure makes it lot easier to position the speaker in any room.

The side vented enclosure makes the ProAc D Forty easy to position.

Please call Audio-T Manchester or email  if you would like to arrange an audition.

 

T: 0161 8398869

Email: Manchester@audio-t.co.uk

 

 

 

 

Projector Event Coming Soon!

Audio-T Brentwood is happy to announce that we will be holding a projector event running from Thursday 20th - Saturday 23rd June.

We have 2 demonstration rooms which will be accompanied by Epson, JVC and Sony. We will also be supplied new screens from the lovely guys at Cyberscreens for this event.

We will be having 2 Epson projectors (Models to be confirmed at a later date) in our smaller demonstration room on a 6ft screen and in our larger demonstration room we will be showcasing a JVC and a Sony on a larger 9f screen.

Also all being well we will have the Sony 4K projector here also to demonsrate which is worth a visit in itself!!

Snacks and beverages will be available and all representatives will be on the Thursday to answer any of your questions that you have!

Offers I hear you ask?

Well we will be teaming up with the companies in question and offering some wonderful offers over the course of the 3 day event which will include offers such as free 3D glasses... discounts on AV equipment purchased with any projector and much much more.... oh and of course cake who would say no to cake!

Any questions about the event please do not hesitate to contact us by either e-mail or by phone and we shall see you all soon.

All the best,

Audio-T,

30, Crown Street,

Brentwood

CM14 4BA

01277-264730

brentwood@audio-t.co.uk

 

 

Classic Album Evening 6...Tuesday 18th June

Following the success of our fifth Classic Vinyl Evening, we are pleased to announce Classic Vinyl Night number six.

This will be on Tuesday 18th June and once again will be held at the Fusion Room restaurant, 80 Friargate, Preston, PR1 2ED, at 7pm 7.30 start. 

Click the link to find where we will be http://www.fusionroom.co.uk/

The album we have chosen is Hotel California by The Eagles

Also attending the evening will be Ralph Ward from manufacturer Project & Karl Smith from Spectral furniture.
The idea is simple... just turn up and listen to an album in it's entirety on vinyl with a short break to grab a drink half way in.

If you are interested in joining us please email the store preston@audio-t.co.uk or call us on 01772 883958 to confirm your place

If you require any additional information, please feel free to contact us.

We look forward to seeing you

Ian, Gavin and Andy       

Ortofon Prime!!...Transform your vinyl

MC Rondo Red from Ortofon!

Can you spot the cartridge?

So what is it about this cartridge?

Well, when you look at the retail price of £375 and what this elegant looking cartridge is capable of, you can appreciate its true value.

Made from Japanese hard wood and decorated using a time honoured lacquering technique for that lush finish.

The stylus is a very fine polished elliptical diamond mounted on a aluminium cantilever.

How does it sound?

We have had this fitted to a Michell Gyro SE for number of weeks and also connected to a Rega RP6.

We would describe it as having “full bodied involving sound”.

A smooth presentation would also be a good description.

Who’s it for?

For people ready to take the jump from MM to MC at a low cost.

Can I hear it?

Absolutely.  You can call Audio-T Manchester and arrange to have a demonstration.  T 0161 8398869 Email: Manchester@audio-t.co.uk

More pics below. Thanks for reading.

Disclaimer. No vinyl was harmed during the making of this blog.

Hmmm..Rondo Red.


Yes! Chrome Trooper you too can pose with the Rondo Red....jeeez.


REL Open Day Event at Portsmouth on 16th May

REL Acoustics Ltd., and Audio T Portsmouth are proud to announce an Open Day Event on Thursday 16th of May.    

A representative from REL Acoustics Ltd. the UK's premier manufacturer of Subwoofers and Sub-Bass Systems will be on hand to demonstrate the astounding Gibraltar G-2, and two new subwoofers. the R-528SE and on-wall Habitat 1.

Demonstrations will illustrate what a REL Sub-Bass System can add to your loudspeaker system in terms of low frequency extension, dynamic range and soundstage enhancement. We will have three setups, a quality 2-channel Hi-Fi system, a Streaming music system & a full blown 3D Home Cinema system with HD sound.

We will also go through the correct set-up to show you how to get the best from a REL subwoofer.

Come along and meet the teams and hear how adding a subwoofer can enhance the sound quality of your Hi-Fi or Home Cinema system.

Please contact Audio T Portsmouth to reserve a space!

Full product details and specs are available on the REL website http://rel.net

Leema Acoustics

We are proud to be stockists of Leema Acoustics.

For value, sound quality and sheer ability to drive loudspeakers, this is a hard brand to beat

The elements series is the latest in the line of Leema high performance audio equipment, squeezing class leading audiophile performance into beautiful hand built half size chassis'.

The Integrated Amp is 56 Watts into 8 Ohms and more than 100 into 4 Ohms. Available with an optional inbuilt 24 bit 192 kHz DAC with SPDIF and asynchronous USB inputs. Like all Leema amplifiers, tricky speaker loads are not a worry.

The CD uses a dedicated TEAC audio transport producing extremely low levels of jitter, whilst the DAC posesses extremely very low levels noise, distortion and crosstalk. Dual analogue outputs are available for both balanced and unbalanced applications.

The DAC is 24 bit 192 kHz, with the USB being asynchronous reducing jitter to virtually zero. Inclusion of an analogue volume control enables it to be used as a very high quality pre amplifier.

The Phono is switcheable for use with both moving coil and moving magnet cartridges, posessing astonishing performance for the price.

 

The Antila IIS Eco CD player introduces many unique technical and ergonomic innovations to combine state-of-the-art performance with surprising ease of use.

Leema's latest "Quattro Infinity Multi-DAC" employs multiple 24 bit / 192 kHz multi-bit delta-sigma data converters, specifically selected for their audio quality.  These are driven from a fully balanced digital data stream.  The result is significantly reduced levels of noise, distortion and crosstalk, thereby producing a breathtakingly real musical performance and a tactile panoramic image.

The drive mechanism with custom servo, features a high quality metal tray and Leema's own control software. State of the art jitter levels, of around 40 pS @ 1 kHz are achieved, significantly improving low level resolution.  The Antila IIS Eco provides even higher levels of performance to maintain its position at the forefront of high-quality CD playback.

Finally, as with other Leema components, the new Antila IIS Eco offers eco-friendly low power standby mode.